How Much Does It Cost For Car Key Replacement?
If you've lost your car keys, there are a few options to replace it. Locksmiths are the cheapest solution.
However, the best way is to contact your dealership for a replacement if you have one. The dealer will charge a little more, but the replacement will be cheaper.
Technician
Losing keys to your car can be stressful, especially when you have an remote key fob it can be expensive. Getting a replacement key can cost between $25 and $450, based on the make and model of your car. The cost of a new key will be influenced by the type of key that you own and the dealer who sells it from.
You can get a locksmith to replace the keys to your car or could visit a dealership to purchase a new one. Both options have different costs and the dealer option is typically the most expensive. If you have a traditional key that's not a key fob, you'll typically find a locksmith who can cut and program it for $50.
Modern car keys come with an electronic chip that connects with your vehicle whenever you use it to lock or start the engine. They require a more complicated process to copy and will cost more to replace. A basic transponder key is about $150, while one that's laser-cut and more difficult to duplicate will cost you about $200.
If you require an replacement for a sophisticated key, like a switchblade in the form of a key fob, or a smartkey, you'll need go to a dealer. Most locksmiths do not have the tools required to duplicate keys like these. You'll need to order them from a dealer. It could take a few days and you will not be in a position to drive until the key is delivered.
The best method to avoid the expense of losing your car keys is to prevent them from being lost in the first place. Keep an extra key in your pocket or in the glove box, and think about using a tracking device to locate your keys.
If you do lose your car keys, make sure to call the police as soon as possible. Do not try to force entry into the car because this could cause an insurance claim, or an insurance claim for theft. Insurance companies can also be suspicious in the event that you break windows or use wire hangers. It is more difficult to convince them that the vehicle belongs to you.
Dealership
The majority of people have lost their keys at some point. Losing your keys can be a real pain, whether they fell into another dimension or were flushed down the toilet by the cat. Replacing your keys can be costly.
The cost to replace a key can vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the type of key that you have. Locksmiths and third-party workshops can easily duplicate metal regular keys. However, many modern vehicles come with a transponder keys that need to be programmed by the dealer in order to work.
For these types of keys, dealers will charge anywhere from $500 and $1000 to replace and reprogram. Although that might seem costly but you can cut down on costs by signing up to a comprehensive key replacement program. These programs offer an annual fee that includes replacement of keys eligible for replacement and remote transponders (but not valet keys) when they are lost or damaged. Some even offer one qualifying key replacement per year for no additional cost.
Most of these programs are available at auto dealers, who typically offer them as an extra add-on to their bumper-to-bumper or extended warranty coverage. You can also find them in reputable roadside assistance businesses.
If you lose a transponder key or an all-in-one laser-cut keys, you'll need to have your vehicle taken to the dealership in order to have them replace it. The dealership will need to order the key and pair it with your car and this could take a couple of days.
Keep a spare key handy to save yourself the cost of replacing it. Also, you should note the VIN number in case you lose it. The VIN can be located on your vehicle's documentation, the dashboard or door jamb. You can also contact the manufacturer of your car or a GEICO agent to assist in finding it. GEICO's Roadside Assistance service can help you towing your vehicle to a qualified repair shop. It's free to sign up and available on the GEICO mobile application.
Independent Locksmith
Replacement of car keys is a big expense that a lot of people aren't prepared for. When you lose your keys, you need to know the cost. You can anticipate to pay a lot if you use the dealership. However, third-party suppliers may have affordable solutions.
If you're worried about losing your car keys it's an excellent idea to create a spare one and keep it in a safe place. It's possible to do this using an independent locksmith or a dealership, but you'll be waiting for the service to be completed. Some companies offer a 24-hour service, but it could be expensive.
The cost to replace the car key may vary depending on the type of vehicle you own and the features. A standard key made of metal can be duplicated at a hardware store for less than $10 while a transponder or "smart" key that connects to the car through a radio transmitter costs significantly more. Additionally, if your car was built in the past decade or so it is likely to have the key fob remote which needs to be programmed to work with your car.
While many locksmiths have the equipment to cut a car key however, not all carry the necessary blanks for every make and model. They also don't all have the capability to program a new car key, especially for models with high-end features that require key codes that are specialized.
Another aspect that affects the cost of replacing your car keys is the time of day that you need the key. You'll pay more for a key that is needed in an emergency that is not during the normal hours of many locksmiths. The location in which you live can affect the price of a car key replacement as well. You'll probably pay more if you live in a remote area.
In certain instances keys to your car can be covered by insurance. Check with your insurer to determine if you're covered. In some cases the cost of replacing may be covered by the vehicle's warranty and/or roadside assistance.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance refers to the services provided by the Department of Transportation automobile associations, as well as insurance companies for motorcyclists and motorists on the sidelines of the highway. This service is provided by automobile associations, departments of transportation or vehicle insurance companies. The company will send a representative to inspect the vehicle or motorcycle and determine if repairs are needed. If you require a replacement key, the company may charge a fee for the supply of one.
Being able to duplicate your car keys is important. This is usually done professionally, whether in the locksmith shop or using the aid of a key duplication device. The methods used to duplicate old mechanical keys don't work with modern keys with technology built into. These types of keys contain a transponder in the key head that communicates with the car to verify that it's a valid key. These types of keys are very difficult to duplicate and are usually only made at an auto dealership or by a licensed automotive locksmith.
The first thing to do if your car key fob is not functioning correctly is to replace the batteries. The majority of hardware stores have the batteries needed for less than $10. car key replacements and dealers may be able provide the battery for free if you are unable to locate the correct battery.
A lost or stolen key can be a huge hassle, especially if you're stuck on the side of the road. Many people attempt to fix the issue by copying a car key using a key-cutting machine or file. These methods won't work with modern car keys, however, and the majority of them require precision programming and copying by a certified expert such as a locksmith, a professional from a car dealership or a mechanic.
Car dealerships offer the lowest cost for replacing keys, but also charge some of the highest costs. Contact your insurance company to determine if the cost of replacing keys is covered.